Frequently asked questions

Why choose Hops & grains?

We are a small, family owned business in one of the most desired wedding destinations in CA! I have been bartending for over 15 years, and personally work every event that i can. If i cant be at your event, you will be getting experienced bartenders that not only make great drinks, but have awesome personalities to give your guests the best experience!

Do you provide alcohol for an event?

No. We are simply a bartending service for hire, who happens to bring his own bar! To be in accordance with California law, all alcoholic beverages must be provided by the client. In addition to follow to laws of California, it must be an open bar for the entirety of the night.

Kegs vs Bottles

Keg Pros: Larger variety of beer options. Usually more cost efficient. Nicer presentation. Its cool to have beer on tap!

Keg Cons: Domestic beer is cheaper in bottles/cans at Costco. If you dont finish the keg, you have to take home a keg and rent a tap. If cocktails are at event, beer doesnt get drank nearly as much.

Bottles Pros: If costco sells it, its more cost efficient. Easier to take home leftovers and dont need special equipment to get beer out. You can get smaller quantities in bottles/cans.

Bottles Cons: If you want craft beer, is usually more costly. Broken bottles on dance floor. Heavier trash bags.

DO YOU INCLUDE A TIP JAR?

Yes. Tipping is customary in this industry and tips are greatly appreciated for great service. Having a tip jar helps keep my prices low. However, if you don't want a tip jar out, a service gratuity fee will be added to the total amount due.

How much do you charge?

Click HERE to send me an email for a free quote! Pricing varies on events and additional services needed

How big is are Hops & Grains mobile bar trailers?

The trailers are 11 feet long, front to back. It measures just over 8 feet tall, and 6 feet wide. Keep in mind, the bar window is driver side of trailer. Also, there needs to be room to get the trailer in the spot, unhook my car, and get my car out of the way.

If there is left over beer in kegs, how can I take it home?

Since you are buying the beer, if there is any leftover, its yours to take! However, if you take the keg home, it will be your responsibility to return the keg in order to get your keg deposit back. If you don't have a kegerator or hand pump tap at home, I can fillup your growlers, or you can buy some off me to empty your keg!

Do you make a bar menu or do I?

Yes and no. I leave it up to you! Some clients like to make their own bar menu to have more customization. If you dont want to make one, i provide a menu made of magnets showing whats available. I also can make a customized round bar menu for additional charge.

If i don’t have room for the trailer, can i still get service?

Yes! I have two 6’ rustic wooden popup bars that can go almost anywhere! I can also use bars that are already at the venue

What does Hops & Grains provide?

For every event, we come with bar tools, cups, napkins, straws, and large ice chest.

How do i know how much alcohol and mixers to buy?

This varies with every event. With all the events i’ve done, I do have a good sense of how much to get, and will help you build a shopping list for your event. It all depends on how big of a drinking crowd you have!